Mailing Internationally with USPS

Sending a package across borders can feel like a big leap—whether it’s a care package to a loved one or an order for your growing online shop. With USPS, you can reach over 180 countries, but international mailing comes with its own set of rules and considerations. From choosing the right service to navigating customs forms, this guide will help you get it right. And for a smoother process, mypostagehub.com makes generating labels and managing international shipments a breeze—let’s dive in!

Why International Mailing Matters

Mailing internationally opens up a world of possibilities, but it’s not as simple as dropping a package in a domestic mailbox. You’ll need to pick the right service, understand costs, and handle customs requirements. Getting these details right ensures your package arrives on time and avoids surprises like extra fees or returns. Here’s everything you need to know to ship globally with USPS.

Services Available

USPS offers three main services for international shipping, each tailored to different needs:

• First-Class Mail International: Perfect for lightweight items like letters, postcards, or small packages up to 13 ounces. Delivery takes 5-10 business days or more, depending on the destination. It’s the budget-friendly option, but tracking isn’t included.
• Priority Mail International: Great for packages up to 70 pounds, with delivery in 6-10 business days. It includes tracking and some insurance (up to $100 for documents, $200 for merchandise), plus flat-rate options for envelopes (up to 4 pounds) and boxes (up to 20 pounds).
• Priority Mail Express International: The fastest choice, delivering in 3-5 business days to many countries, also up to 70 pounds. It offers tracking, insurance, and a money-back guarantee for select locations.

Here’s a quick comparison:

Destination Countries and Costs

USPS ships to over 180 countries, but costs vary by destination. Unlike domestic shipping with zones, international rates use “price groups”—each country is assigned a group that affects pricing. For example, Canada might be in a lower group than Australia, impacting your cost. Delivery times also differ—expect 3-5 days for Express to major hubs like the UK, but longer for remote areas. Check the USPS Postage Price Calculator or Country Price Groups to nail down specifics. Note that some countries may have temporary service suspensions, so double-check before you ship.

Customs Forms and Duties

If you’re sending a package (not just a letter or postcard), you’ll need a customs form—usually PS Form 2976. This declares what’s inside, its value, and whether it’s a gift or merchandise. For EU countries, rules tightened in 2025, requiring detailed descriptions (e.g., “cotton T-shirt” instead of “clothing”). You can fill these out online via USPS tools or mypostagehub.com for convenience.

Heads up: recipients might face duties or taxes based on their country’s rules. You can’t prepay these, so let them know to expect possible fees—it’s a nice courtesy that avoids confusion.

Prohibited and Restricted Items

Not everything can cross borders. Here’s the rundown:

• Prohibited Items: These are banned outright—think alcohol, explosives, fireworks, flammable liquids, mercury, narcotics, poisons, and anything radioactive or perishable that could spoil. No exceptions, so don’t try sneaking them through.
• : These can go with conditions. Lithium batteries are okay if installed in devices and labeled right; cigars might work to certain countries; medicines need proper authorization; and firearms are heavily regulated (only licensed folks can try). Check USPS International Shipping Restrictions or Publication 52 for the full scoop.

Mailing something risky without following rules can lead to fines—up to $100,000 per violation—so it’s worth being cautious.

Shipping Costs

Costs depend on the service, weight, and price group. For example, a 1-pound Priority Mail International flat-rate envelope to Canada might start at $30.90, while Express to Japan could be double that. Flat-rate options keep things predictable—envelopes up to 4 pounds and boxes up to 20 pounds—but weigh your package first to see if regular rates beat it. Use the USPS Postage Price Calculator or mypostagehub.com to get exact quotes and print labels.

Delivery Times

• First-Class Mail International: 5-10 business days or more—great for patience, not urgency.
• Priority Mail International: 6-10 business days—reliable for most needs.
• Priority Mail Express International: 3-5 business days—your go-to for speed, with some spots offering date-certain delivery.

Times vary by destination, so plan ahead, especially for holidays or remote areas.

Tracking Your Shipment

Tracking comes with Priority Mail International and Priority Mail Express International—check progress at USPS Tracking. First-Class Mail International doesn’t include it, so you’re flying blind unless you add a service like registered mail for a fee.

Returns and Insurance

If a package can’t be delivered, it might return to you, depending on the service and country rules—details can be fuzzy, so ask USPS if it’s critical. Insurance starts at $100 for documents and $200 for merchandise with Priority and Express, and you can buy up to $5,000 more for valuable items. Weigh the cost against your peace of mind.

Address Formatting

Get the address right—international formats differ. Include the recipient’s name, street, city, province (if applicable), postal code, and country (in all caps, e.g., “CANADA”) on the last line. Check USPS Address Formatting for country-specific tips to avoid mix-ups.

Tips for Successful International Mailing

• Double-Check Addresses: One typo can derail delivery—verify everything.
• Pack Securely: Use sturdy boxes or padded envelopes, especially for long trips.
• Label Clearly: Customs forms and shipping labels need to be visible and complete.
• Plan Ahead: Factor in delivery times and customs delays, especially around holidays.
• Use Tools: mypostagehub.com simplifies labels and customs forms—perfect for busy shippers.

Final Thoughts

Mailing internationally with USPS doesn’t have to be daunting. Pick the right service—First-Class for light stuff, Priority for reliability, or Express for speed—mind the customs rules, and keep an eye on costs and restrictions. With over 180 countries in reach, you’re ready to go global. Want to make it even easier? Try mypostagehub.com to handle the details and get your package on its way, stress-free. Happy shipping!